Blue Murder Hotel: A Quirky Kiwi Crime Series Makes a Refreshing Change
This Saturday at 7:30pm on ABC, viewers can tune into Blue Murder Hotel, a new series that promises a delightful twist on the classic crime drama. Set in a small town hotel, the show follows a string of murders that seem to plague the local establishment, offering a fresh alternative to the often-seen English countryside settings in this genre.
In the debut episode, audiences are introduced to a young, newly graduated police officer who finds himself in over his head. The laid-back nature of the job allows him to sneak out for a surf, only to return to a murder scene with little clue how to proceed. By the series' end, he may become adept at solving crimes, but for now, the real detective work falls to the hotel's owners, a pair of retired police detectives.
Their crime-solving methods involve extensive back-and-forth dialogue, which helps viewers stay informed about the unfolding plot. The series stands out due to its slightly quirky New Zealand character, making it a pleasant and engaging watch for fans of crime dramas.
Into The Void: Life, Death and Heavy Metal Explores Music's Darker Side
On Tuesday at 9:30pm, SBS Viceland airs Into The Void: Life, Death and Heavy Metal, a documentary series that delves into the often-misunderstood connection between heavy metal music and death. While the link isn't new or entirely accurate—much of the genre's imagery is theatrical—this series takes a literal approach, examining instances where musicians have faced death or accusations that their music influenced others' suicides.
The first episode focuses on Randy Rhoads, the guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne's solo band, who died in 1982. Rhoads defies the typical sex and drugs stereotypes of metal acts; he was a quiet, dedicated guitarist who grew weary of life on the road. Interestingly, the series also includes bands like The Plasmatics, which are punk rather than heavy metal, highlighting the tenuous nature of the metal-death association.
United Gangs of America: A Look at Rival Motorcycle Gangs
Thursday at 8:30pm on SBS Viceland brings United Gangs of America, a documentary that explores the intense rivalry between motorcycle gangs. The title's use of "united" is ironic, as the first episode centers on two groups—the Hells Angels and the Pagan's—who harbor deep-seated animosity toward each other.
The conflict ignited when the Hells Angels relocated their headquarters to the Bronx, which was considered Pagan's territory. This move sparked a violent war, culminating in street ambushes and shootings. In a bid to increase membership, the Pagan's leader began selling patches to new recruits rather than requiring them to earn them through a probationary period, resulting in members who didn't even ride motorcycles. This documentary offers a fascinating glimpse into the lesser-known dynamics of these gangs.
Overall, this week's TV lineup provides a mix of entertainment, from quirky crime-solving to deep dives into music and subcultures, ensuring something for every viewer.
